HATTERAS — Shirley Barnett Austin, 81, of Hatteras, NC died Wednesday, January 15, 2020, at Peak Resources – Outer Banks.
Born in Toms River, NJ on March 25, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Edna and Jarvis Barnett.
Shirley’s love for children could be seen as she and her husband were foster parents to more than 20 children. She tutored children in reading and her love for the interaction with the people she worked with motivated her to work at The Hatterasman Drive In. An active member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Shirley was a pianist for Cape Hatteras Chapter 303. Until her decline in health, she attended Lighthouse Assembly of God raising her children in church and faith.
She was known for her beautiful and contagious smile that would light up a room when she entered.
Shirley is survived by her husband, Gary Austin; four children, Shelva Cox (David), Sheila Mann (Rex), Shawn Caldwell (Jay), and Shane Austin (Holly); nine grandchildren, Gary Mann, Stacy Lamb, Susan Sanders, Austin Caldwell, Davey Cox, Sabrina Polk, Sierra Austin, Owen Austin, and Gary Austin; ten great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Joy; and a sister, Barbara Williams.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at Lighthouse Assembly of God with Rev. Durwood Willis officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Port Health Services Hatteras Clinic (PO Box 565, Nags Head, NC 27959 or online at www.porthealth.org/about/donations).
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
